Word of Honor by Hallee Bridgeman // Review

Review: 

Riveting from the very beginning, this book picks where the last one ends with the wedding of Cynthia and Rick. This book launches into a brand new adventure that works as a stand alone, as Bill and Lynda go deep into foreign territory to root out terrorists, posing as husband and wife despite their history together. 

A fantastic read, that pulled me in and I didn't want to put it down. Excellent tension, pacing, filled with action and laced with danger. I also liked how Bill showed that he had truly changed from the man that he was back in college, to a man of faith, action, and purpose. 

Great character development and relationship building throughout, I liked how they had to rebuild trust between them, as well as how Lynda came to see Bill for the man he became rather than who he was. 

Overall, a book that was impossible to put down, with characters that I became attached to and could cheer for all the way through. This book definitely cemented Ms. Bridgeman as one of my favorite authors. Highly recommend!

I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

All That Really Matters by Nicole Deese // Review

 

My Review: 

Molly McKenzie is an internet influencer and makeup maven on the verge of a huge opportunity that will take her to the next level and she's got to do something to increase her chances of winning. So she volunteers with a local organization that helps at risk youth, while there she finds herself challenged and accepted for who she is beneath the face that she shows the world. 

Engaging and heart tugging read, I loved seeing Molly change over the course of the book as she befriends the girls, wins over program director Silas, and comes to see life from a different perspective. Molly has a big heart, though a little misguided at first. She is charming, and hard not to like despite her superficial exterior, I loved how the author made her someone I cared about through her vulnerability, flaws, and friendships with the girls. 

A captivating read that I didn't want to put down, this book had heart, amazing characters, great interaction, charm, humor and faith. I had my doubts about this book, as it focuses heavily on the world of being a social media influencer, but my doubts were quickly put to rest as Molly became someone that I cheered for. Perfect for fans of Christian contemporary romance!

I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

Nicole by Sarah Monzon // Review

My Review: 

A delightful enemies to lovers romance, filled with heart and friendship.

Nicole is an environmentally conscious single mom, a blind date gone wrong puts her in the path of Dr. Drew Bauer a man who is her opposite in almost every way. Spark fly, but will their differences bring them together or tear them apart? 

A charming rom-com, with endearing characters, strong themes of friendship, faith and forgiveness, as well as humor. I loved every scene with both Nicole and Drew together, they have great chemistry and I liked how they liked to push each other's buttons. 

Overall, this was such a fun read. I loved seeing characters from previous books, as well as getting to know Sierra who is one smart cookie. I liked how protective Drew is of others, as well as his heart for helping children. I can't wait to read more in the series!

I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

The Danger with Diamonds by Traci Hunter Abramson and Sian Ann Bessey // Just Read Celebration

 

Welcome to the Blog + Review Tour for The Danger with Diamonds by Traci Hunter Abramson & Sian Ann Bessey, hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!

ABOUT THE BOOK

Title: The Danger with Diamonds 

Series: Falcon Point Suspense #1 

Authors: Traci Hunter Abramson & Sian Ann Bessey 

Publisher: Covenant Communications 

Release Date: October 10, 2022 

Genre: Clean & Wholesome Romantic Suspense

Some secrets are worth keeping. Others are not.

When Lars Hendriks arranges to meet Marit Jansen in Vienna, he is hoping their friendship will blossom into romance. What he doesn’t expect is a surprise visit from his cousin Cole or the loose diamonds he brings with him.

As a CIA operative, Cole Bridger is used to uncertainty, but when his work takes him back to Vienna, he looks forward to reconnecting with Isabelle Roberts, the fellow agent he dated briefly before duty took him away from Austria. Unfortunately, his silence over the last few months has created a chasm that he can’t cross without help. He barely takes a step toward repairing the damaged relationship when a brazen jewel heist seemingly links Cole, Lars, Marit, and Isabelle to the crime. The group is drawn into a deadly mystery, and once again, the treasures of Falcon Point are threatened. It doesn’t take long for them to realize they have stumbled upon something far bigger and more dangerous than a simple robbery. And someone on the inside knows it.

PURCHASE LINKS: Goodreads | Amazon | Barnes & Noble

Review: 

A gripping read filled with intrigue, romance, and drama. 

The long awaited follow up to the Heirs of Falcon Point, doesn't disappoint with well developed, likable characters. I was so happy that this book features Lars, Cole, Isabelle, and Marit who I met in the previous book, but their stories weren't focused on as much as others, so this book makes perfect sense. 

A well written read, with compelling characters and relationships to root for throughout. There was a lot going on in this book, with a brilliant balance of mystery, romance, and suspense. I loved Marit and Lars together, they were just so cute, and I adored their scenes together. I also loved the lush setting, and the stunning scenery throughout the book.

Overall, an excellent novel, engaging and compelling, filled with suspense, with clean content. 

I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

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ABOUT THE AUTHORS

Traci Hunter Abramson was born in Arizona, where she lived until moving to Venezuela for a study-abroad program. After graduating from Brigham Young University, she worked for the Central Intelligence Agency for several years, eventually resigning in order to raise her family. She credits the CIA with giving her a wealth of ideas for suspense novels as well as the skills needed to survive her children's teenage years. She has gone on to write a number of bestselling suspense novels that have consistently been nominated as Whitney Award finalists. She considers shoes an optional accessory which became evident when she won her first three Whitney Awards in 2013 (Code Word), 2014 (Deep Cover), and 2016 (Failsafe.) Safe House won Whitney Awards for both the mystery/suspense category as well as 2017 Adult Novel of the Year. She added two additional awards in 2019 (Mistaken Reality - best mystery/suspense and Sanctuary - Adult Novel of the Year.) She currently lives in Virginia with her family where she enjoys sports, travel, writing, and recently retired from coaching high school swimming.

Connect with Traci by visiting traciabramson.com to follow her on social media or subscribe to email newsletter updates.

Sian Ann Bessey was born in Cambridge, England, but grew up on the island of Anglesey off the coast of North Wales. She left her homeland to attend university in the U.S. and earned a bachelor's degree in communications with a minor in English. She began her writing career as a student, publishing several magazine articles while still in college. Since then she has published historical romance and romantic suspense novels, along with a variety of children's books. She is a USA Today best selling author, a Foreward Reviews Book of the Year finalist, and a Whitney Award finalist. Although Sian doesn't have the opportunity to speak Welsh very often anymore, she can still wrap her tongue around, "Llanfairpwllgwyngyllgogerychwyrndrobwllllantysiliogogogoch." She loves to travel and experience other cultures, but when she's home, her favorite activities are spending time with her family, cooking, and reading.

Connect with Sian by visiting sianannbessey.com to follow her on social media or subscribe to email newsletter updates.

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TOUR GIVEAWAY

(1) winner will receive a $25 Amazon Gift Card, a signed copy of The Danger of Diamonds, and book-themed swag (including stickers, bookmark, and postcard).

Full tour schedule linked below. The giveaway begins at midnight October 17, 2022 and will last through 11:59 PM EST on October 24, 2022. Winner will be notified within 2 weeks of close of the giveaway and given 48 hours to respond or risk forfeiture of prize. US only. Void where prohibited by law or logistics.

Giveaway is subject to the policies found here.

ENTER GIVEAWAY HERE

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Follow along at JustRead Tours for a full list of stops!

Body of Evidence by Irene Hannon // Review

Lucie's Review: 

A twisting romantic suspense, with faith and characters that you can cheer for all the way through. 

Forensic Pathologist Grace Reilly is disturbed by an emerging pattern in the autopsies, and reaches out to Sheriff Nate Cox with her findings, now they have a killer on their trail.  

Engaging and fast paced with great character interaction. I liked that Nate is dedicated to his job and took her concerns seriously, and then supporting her throughout. I also loved seeing her sisters from the previous books, though you don't have to have read their stories to pick this one up. 

Overall, a fantastic read, I especially loved how Grace and Nate stuck to their strong personal convictions, as well as seeing them work together to find the killer. A riveting read, suspenseful, with great character development. You won't want to miss it!

I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

Paul's Promise // Coming Soon to Theaters and $10 Amazon Gift Card

Go see PAUL’S PROMISE in theaters starting October 21st!  https://paulspromisemovie.com/

Set in the peak of the 1960s Civil Rights movement, “Paul's Promise” is  the inspiring true story of Paul Holderfield, former racist firefighter-turned-pastor  who started one of the first integrated churches in the American South. It’s one  man’s journey to hope and healing during a troubled time in our Nation’s history  that resulted in one man’s decision to serve God and stand up to injustice - a story  that continues to make a huge impact on the community to this day.

Buy your tickets TODAY to see PAUL’S PROMISE in theaters starting 10/21! https://paulspromisemovie.com/

“Excellent presentation of a life changed by Jesus” - Fred Higgins from Assembly of  God

Review:

Based on a true story about the power of a mother's prayers and a life transformed by Jesus Christ.

An inspiring story of hope and humanity, set during the 1960's in the American South. I loved how Paul's mother kept praying, never giving up despite the push back. Her faith was inspiring, as well as her love for her son. The story is told with the use of flashbacks to Paul's growing up years, showing how those experiences informed his adult years.

A solid faith-filled film, with a powerful message of hope. It was a little slow to start, as all the pieces started to come together and I got to know the characters. But the groundwork paid off later on. I think that this film would be appropriate for families with older teens or families who have perhaps talked about the topics portrayed prior or afterwards.

Overall, a inspiring movie based on a true story, it does a great job of showing the realities of the 1960's, and the power of God in this man's life.

#PaulsPromiseMIN #MomentumInfluencerNetwork

Many thanks to Damascus Road Productions for providing a sample of the product for  this review. Opinions are 100% my own.

$10 Amazon Gift Card Giveaway--limited to U.S. winners only

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Pursued in the Wilderness by Loretta Eidson // Celebrate Lit Tour, Review, and Giveaway

About the Book

Book: Pursued in the Wilderness

Author: Loretta Eidson

Genre: Romantic Suspense

Release date: September 27, 2022

Her baby’s life…depends on one man and his K-9

The murder of her ex-husband at a remote cabin and the discovery that the killers want to take her about-to-be-born baby sends Brooke Chandler running into the Tennessee mountains. She stumbles into the campsite of K-9 handler Trent Williston and his search-and-rescue dog, Rex. Trent vows to get Brooke and her baby to safety. But with the killers on their heels, the impending birth of Brooke’s baby and the threats of the wilderness, they must first survive…

 

Click here to get your copy!

 Review:

Desperate people do desperate things. Brooke Chandler is pregnant and caught in the mountains trying to outrun the people who her ex-husband owed a lot of money, and they've got murder on their mind.

High stakes chase through the Smoky Mountains. I really liked Trent, he has an amazing dog, a supportive family, he is well versed in mountain survival. I liked that he wasn't afraid to jump right in and help Brooke, in her time of need. He is well prepared, with a well-trained dog, and I liked that he was always thinking of her and her needs first.

It took a while to get into it, Brooke isn't quite cut out for wilderness survival, especially heavily pregnant, so I was glad that she had Trent to lean on. There was a lot going on in the background of the story, but the present was more set during their trek through the mountains, with plenty of wildlife and Murphy's Law working really hard along the way.

A high stakes wilderness chase, with sweet romance and an amazing dog!

I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own

About the Author

Award-winning author Loretta Eidson lives by the motto ‘never a dull moment,’ especially with her husband, four children, and thirteen grandchildren. Her love of reading began in middle school, where she devoured Phyllis Whitney’s mystery novels. Loretta’s heart is writing romantic suspense. She believes in the power of prayer and loves putting her hero and heroine in realistic predicaments where they must trust God to pull them through.

Connect with Loretta on social media or through her website at www.lorettaeidson.com. Be sure to sign up for her quarterly newsletter www.lorettaeidson.com/newsletter-signup/

 

More from Loretta

For as long as I can remember, I’ve been mesmerized by the majesty of the mountains. I love log cabin vacations on the mountain top, sitting in a rocking chair on the front porch, and enjoying my early morning coffee. Low-lying clouds hang over them like a soft blanket and slowly dissipate while birds sing their wake-up songs. The perfect place to reminisce about life and dream about the future. Serene and beautiful.

 

One would think with my admiration of the mountain range I would accept all the mountains have to offer. Not so. Even though there are many hiking trails, I have ventured out on very few. Animals of the wild frighten me, but none near as much as a bear. I am certain every bear in the forest hides in the tops of trees, waiting for my arrival so they can pounce on me. I know it’s silly, but my apprehension is real.

 

What could be more suspenseful than to write a novel about Brooke Chandler, thirty-eight weeks pregnant, running for her and her baby’s life through the mountains? She must face her fears of the wild, including bears, if she wants to save her baby from the killers that murdered her husband. To make it worse, she’s in the forest alone in the inky darkness.

 

Handler Trent Williston and his K-9, Rex, escape the city, away from all pregnant women. He refuses to deliver another baby after a mishap with an emergency delivery while on the job. A camping trip to the mountains with Rex is his go-to for relaxation – until Brooke falls into his camp with three killers on her trail.

 

I hope you enjoy Trent and Brooke’s story as they face their challenges together.

Blog Stops

Book Reviews From an Avid Reader, October 1

Texas Book-aholic, October 1

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, October 2

Blogging With Carol, October 2

Inklings and notions, October 3

deb’s Book Review, October 4

Paula’s Pad of Suspense & Detection, October 4

Betti Mace, October 5

Lily’s Book Reviews, October 5

Ashley’s Clean Book Reviews, October 6

Simple Harvest Reads, October 6 (Guest Review from Donna Cline)

Locks, Hooks and Books, October 7

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, October 8

Hallie Reads, October 8

Because I said so — and other adventures in Parenting, October 9

Holly’s Book Corner, October 9

Happily Managing a Household of Boys, October 10

Mary Hake, October 10

Through the Fire Blogs, October 11

For Him and My Family, October 11

Tell Tale Book Reviews, October 12

A Good Book and Cup of Tea, October 12

Pause for Tales, October 13

Labor Not in Vain, October 13

Gina Holder, Author and Blogger, October 14 (Author Interview)

Lights in a Dark World, October 14

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Loretta is giving away the grand prize package of a $50 Amazon gift card and a copy of the book!!

Be sure to comment on the blog stops for nine extra entries into the giveaway! Click the link below to enter.

 https://promosimple.com/ps/21c37/pursued-in-the-wilderness-celebration-tour-giveaway

The Secret of Fire by J.J. Fischer // Review

My Review: 

A truly epic conclusion, that blew past my expectations.

 I liked how right from the beginning we started to get answers about El's past in the otherworld, things that had kind of driven me crazy not being completely sure about in the previous book. But right away we start getting answers, and I liked that El stands by her convictions throughout. 

Excellently done character arcs, with strong gradual development over the course of the story, I loved the well handled faith conversations were between Torsten and Kit. I also found myself surprised at how much I came to like Emery over the course of his story.

Overall, a fantastic conclusion to the duology, that in my opinion is even better than the first in the series. In depth exploration of faith, strong characters that are willing to make costly sacrifices, love tested and more. Perfect for fans of speculative fiction!

I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

Art of Writing Conference 2022 // Takeover Blitz and Giveaway

Welcome to the Takeover Blitz for the Art of Writing Conference organized by ECPA, hosted by JustRead Publicity Tours!

A QUICK NOTE ABOUT THE CHRISTY AWARD FINALISTS

Christian fiction fans are invited to register and watch the free webcast announcement of The Christy Award finalists in each category live on October 11 at 11 am (CDT), featuring award-winning novelist and radio host Chris Fabry and ECPA president Jeff Crosby.

Registration is available at ecpa.org/event/Christy22Finalists

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ABOUT THE CONFERENCE

The Art of Writing conference will be held from 12:30-5 pm (CDT) on November 17 at Lipscomb University in Nashville, TN, and is designed to bring Christian writers, creatives, storytellers, and publishing curators together for a half-day of intensive seminars that: celebrate the creative life while recognizing the weariness; provide practical tips for engaging in a rapidly-changing industry; introduce challenges to become better writers; and answer the questions authors are asking.

The four-session conference will bring together writers, creatives, and publishing curators for training and connection around these topics presented by industry experts, authors, and publishers:

What Makes a Gush-Worthy Book with book reviewer Carrie Schmidt, Revell senior acquisitions editor Kelsey Bowen, author and agent Cynthia Ruchti, and WaterBrook editor Jamie Lapeyrolerie.

How Reading Diverse Books Makes Us Better Authors and Humans with a panel of writers, agents, and publishers including Edwina Perkins, Deborah Gonzalez, Dorena Williamson, Jeff Crosby, and Jevon Bolden who share their own stories and best practices through this approach

To Tok or Not to Tok with reel pros Emilie Haney (pen name Bell Renshaw) and author/ podcaster Kristi Ann Hunter

When Weary & Discouraged: How We Can Care for Our Writing Souls with author Carolyn Weber, whose debut book Surprised by Oxford, is being made into a feature film

REGISTER: The Art of Writing conference $99 | The Art of Writing conference + The Christy Awards Gala Bundle $139  

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TOUR GIVEAWAY

(1) winner will receive their choice of one ticket to the Art of Writing conference OR print copies of The Christy Award finalist titles from one category!

Be sure to check out each stop on the tour for more chances to win. Full tour schedule linked below. Giveaway began at midnight October 10, 2022 and lasts through 11:59 PM EST on October 17, 2022. Winner will be notified within 2 weeks of close of the giveaway and given 48 hours to respond or risk forfeiture of prize. US only. Void where prohibited by law or logistics.

Giveaway is subject to the policies found here.

ENTER GIVEAWAY HERE

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REGISTER FOR THE CHRISTY AWARD 2022 EVENTS

The Christy Award Finalist Reveal Webinar on October 11 at 11 am CT FREE 
Christian fiction fans are encouraged to watch the announcement live!
SIGN UP

Art of Writing on November 17, 12:30-5 pm at Lipscomb University in Nashville $99
A conference for writers, storytellers, and publishing curators.

The Christy Award Gala on November 17, 7-9 pm at Lipscomb University in Nashville $89
Celebrate this year's finalists and winners with authors, editors, publishers, and readers!

Bundle the Art of Writing Conference & The Christy Award Gala $139

REGISTER

The Christy Award® is a program of the Evangelical Christian Publishers Association (ECPA) and is the foremost award honoring and promoting excellence in Christian fiction since 1999. For more information about ECPA, visit ECPA.org. For more information about the Christy Awards and Art of Writing conferences, visit ChristyAwards.com or email TheChristyAward@ecpa.org

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Follow along at JustRead Tours for a full list of stops!

 

The Bride of Blackfriar's Lane by Michelle Griep // Celebrate Lit Tour, Review, and Giveaway

About the Book

Book: The Bride of Blackfriars Lane

Author: Michelle Griep

Genre: Christian/Romance/Historical

Release date: September, 2022

Detective Jackson Forge can hardly wait to marry the street-sly swindler who’s turned his life upside down. Kit Turner is equally excited to wed the handsome detective, and what better way to show her love than providing him with a gift any man of the law would love? She determines to bring to justice the men who years ago maimed his brother—despite Jackson’s warning to leave the past in the past. As she digs into the mystery of what happened, she unwittingly tumbles into her own history and endangers her future happiness with Jackson.

 

Click here to get your copy!

Review: Jackson and Kit are back in a brand new adventure, as they prepare for their upcoming nuptials.

  A rollicking Victorian adventure, full of wit and charm, that is nearly impossible to put down. I loved seeing many returning faces as well as meeting new faces along the way. Kit and Jackson must navigate their differences as they prepare for their life together, and I liked that they both had to realize they would have to change and it wasn't as easy as happily ever after. 

I loved Kit's friendships with Frankie and James, she has a huge heart despite her impulsive nature. Jackson is the perfect foil for Kit, professional and a rule follower, yet endlessly devoted to her. 

Overall, an enjoyable read, action packed, with strong themes of trust and forgiveness, along with memorable characters that you can cheer for all the way through!

 I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

About the Author

Michelle Griep’s been writing since she first discovered blank wall space and Crayolas. She is the Christy Award-winning author of historical romances: A Tale of Two Hearts, The Captured Bride, The Innkeeper’s Daughter, 12 Days at Bleakly Manor, The Captive Heart, Brentwood’s Ward, A Heart Deceived, and Gallimore, but also leaped the historical fence into the realm of contemporary with the zany romantic mystery Out of the Frying Pan. If you’d like to keep up with her escapades, find her at www.michellegriep.com or stalk her on Facebook, Twitter, and Pinterest.

And guess what? She loves to hear from readers! Feel free to drop her a note at michellegriep@gmail.com.

 

More from Michelle

A Visit to Borough Market

Whenever I skip across the pond, I make it a point to stop at the Borough Market for some great meals. This area was—and is—a popular place to shop and an absolute must-see for food lovers. From grocers, fishmongers, cheese sellers, and butchers to all kinds of ethnic eats, it’s hard not to want to sample everything. My personal favorite are the buddha bowls.

Believe it or not, Borough market has been in operation for the past thousand years. Yes, you read that correctly. It actually began as a bridge, constructed in 990. But let’s fast forward to the Victorian era, shall we?

 

In the nineteenth century, a railway viaduct was constructed through the middle of the market, which brought in more people—but also brought in more noise, soot, disruption, and crime. In such a hotbed of activity, it’s easy to imagine cutpurses and pickpockets of all sorts.

And that’s the perfect scene for a certain con-artist turned investigator to meet with an informant. In The Bride of Blackfriars Lane, Kit Turner is up to her old shenanigans, much to Jackson’s chagrin. You can visit Borough Market along with her in this wild ride through Victorian London. It’s just one of the many stops in a city that never gets old.

 

 

Blog Stops

Babbling Becky L’s Book Impressions, September 27

Book Reviews From an Avid Reader, September 27

Life of Literature, September 27

All-of-a-kind Mom, September 27

Texas Book-aholic, September 28

Book Looks by Lisa, September 28

Bigreadersite, September 28

Betti Mace, September 29

Genesis 5020, September 29

Remembrancy, September 29

Debbie’s Dusty Deliberations, September 30

Christina’s Corner, September 30

A Baker’s Perspective, September 30

She Lives to Read, October 1

Inklings and notions, October 1

Happily Managing a Household of Boys, October 1

For Him and My Family, October 2

Blogging With Carol, October 2

Daysong Reflections, October 2

Hallie Reads, October 2

Gina Holder, Author and Blogger, October 3 (Author Interview)

Where Faith and Books Meet, October 3

deb’s Book Review, October 3

Locks, Hooks and Books, October 4

Jeanette’s Thoughts, October 4

Holly’s Book Corner, October 4

Ashley’s Clean Book Reviews, October 5

Bizwings Blog, October 5

Back Porch Reads, October 5

Connie’s History Classroom, October 6

Books I’ve Read, October 6

Blossoms and Blessings, October 6

Truth and Grace Homeschool Academy, October 7

Splashes of Joy, October 7

Simple Harvest Reads, October 7 (Guest Review from Mindy Houng)

The Write Escape, October 8

Tell Tale Book Reviews, October 8

Vicky Sluiter, October 8

Through the Fire Blogs, October 8

Pause for Tales, October 9

Cover Lover Book Review, October 9

Labor Not in Vain, October 9

Jodie Wolfe – Stories Where Hope and Quirky Meet, October 10

Melissa’s Bookshelf, October 10

Musings of a Sassy Bookish Mama, October 10

A Good Book and Cup of Tea, October 10

Giveaway

To celebrate her tour, Michelle is giving away the grand prize package of a $25 Amazon e-gift card and a copy of The Bride of Blackfriars Lane!!

Be sure to comment on the blog stops for nine extra entries into the giveaway! Click the link below to enter.

https://promosimple.com/ps/21aab/the-bride-of-blackfriars-lane-celebration-tour-giveaway